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Page 09
TOURISM
The unique
climate of Cyprus offers year-round opportunities for a perfect holiday.
Rainfall is concentrated in December and January,
and the average sea
temperature is above 20 ºC for more than half the year. Cyprus is renowned
for its wild flowers which carpet the island in spring (there are more than
38 species of orchid alone) and scent of orange, lemon and grapefruit
blossom fills the air.
The coastline
of Northern Cyprus offers some of the finest and safest bathing in the
Mediterranean. Although most holiday establishments have modern pools, the
crystal clear waters of the eastern Mediterranean are wonderful for
swimming, snorkelling, sailing and skiing. Most of the holiday complexes are
situated near the picturesque ancient port of Girne on the north coast, or
Gazimaðusa in the east. The narrow fertile northern coastal strip is backed
by the spectacular Beþparmak mountains - also known as the Girne range,
studded with its medieval castles and fortresses. The rugged slopes are
covered with Aleppo pines, olives and carob trees, with small villages
nestling in the hillsides. Nearer the coast, most activity is concentrated
along the coast road.
Inland, behind
the rocky Girne range and the imposing Five Finger Mountain, stretches the
huge fertile Mesarya plain, Ercan airport and the island's capital, Lefkoþa.
Along the east coast lies the ancient fortified city of Gazimaðusa and the
nearby ruins of Salamis. To the north east, the landscape becomes more
broken and open fields give way to small pastures enclosed by stone walls
and interspersed with olive trees and rocky outcrops. The beaches here are a
blend of rock pools and sheltered sandy bays.
The exotic
cuisine of Cyprus reflects its history and maritime associations. Turkish
Cypriot cuisine is a fascinating blend of East and West.
Information on
touristic sites and accommodation facilities can be obtained from the
information bureaus.
web:
http://www.northcyprus.cc/
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